Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #2 (DICEY FLATS) (2-1) - The probable favorite, daughter of 'Flatter' ships in from Churchill Downs where she rallied to finish second of 12, beaten two-lengths going seven furlongs for a $50K tag Nov 5. It was her second start back from almost a five month layoff and trainer Ed Kenneally moves her up in class while sending her an additional furlong.
2nd pick: #4 (Giant Crystal) (9-2) - She cost a hefty $450,000 back in the fall of 2012. In a rather unusual stat she's checked in third in all five-lifetime starts. The latest came here Dec 6 when she rallied after a poor break going 5.5-furlongs. It was her first since Feb 22 and first ever on the dirt. She's trained well since and this mile distance should suit her much better.
3rd pick: #1 (Holy Cargo) (10-1) - Daughter of 'Holy Bull' is part on an entry with #1a-'Memento d'Oro.' Four-year-old raced evenly here going six-furlongs Nov 21. It was her first race in five months and first on conventional dirt. She's worked four times since and is stretching out to a mile. Think she can be competitive at a big price in this spot.
4th pick: #3 (Classy Teacher) (5-2) - New York invader is well bred and lightly raced. Daughter of 'Hard Spun' has done her best racing on the grass but there's no reason that she shouldn't be sharp on the dirt. A top NYRA barn (Rudy Rodriguez) ships her down for her Maryland debut.